By John Barros and Denise Goncalves

Very few people can escape the frenzy that captivates the nation today as you look for security in what it means to live in America post September 11, 2001 and at the tail end of a war fought in the name of national security. At a time when many in our country look to unite and build community, we can not afford wholesale attacks and foundationless observations on any part of our community because of the fears found in a budget crisis or an economic downturn.

The world is rapidly and chaotically changing around us. No question about it. It is getting smaller and smaller and we are all being asked to live next to new realities and learn how to deal. Perhaps those are the challenges and tensions that led Eugene Rivers to stretch superficial observations so thin that they snapped while pointing to problems facing Boston's Cape Verdean community on WGBH's Greater Boston program recently. His gross analysis and nonsensical solution showed that he is out of touch, while his traditional sprint to the ambulance calling Haitians "monkeys" and making fun of Jamaicans shows he might be out of cash.

It is critical that these types of antagonistic remarks not cause strain or stress on the relationships that have been formed among different ethnic groups, the workings between immigrant communities and law enforcement agencies, and slowly growing confidence between marginalized communities and mainstream institutions. Together, let us use our maturity as a rich and diverse America to embrace the struggle of any part of our community as the opportunity to strengthen the entire community. Boston's media has shown it can do this as it captured the rejection of Eugene's comments by Boston residents. We partner with those who have identified the positives and are interested in helping a section of the community by lifting them up instead of bashing them down.

But there is much more to be done. If you are truly interested in uniting and building the community, you should know there are ongoing conversations already among those who are more interested in lifting the people up as a way to combat a problem instead of tearing them down with controversial rhetoric. Step out of your car and open the doors to the neighborhood organizations. You will find numerous strong African American, Haitian, Jamaican, and Cape Verdean men and women uplifting youth. Take the time to ask around. You will be given the names of numerous Cape Verdean leaders in the community who are working together with leaders from other ethnic groups to rebuild the community. Walk the streets, and meet the outreach workers involved in mentoring, tutoring, job readiness, cultural activities, and countless other programs struggling to survive in this economy while working to meet the identified needs of the community. If you want to make a difference, talk about bringing the community together across ethnic lines. Meet your new neighbors and have dialogue.

The Cape Verdean community is currently working with several other organizations outside of the Cape Verdean community to address the issue of violence. Despite the fact that Cape Verdean homicides this year account for less than 1 percent of Boston as a whole, we do not deny violence has affected this strong knit community. Beyond the work that is already being done, plans are being put in place to reach out to families, as an entire unit, to provide additional support and resources. As an immigrant community that does not have English as its native language, additional culturally and linguistic services need to be made available. Families need to be provided a space that they can call their own, to freely discuss issues and problems that affect them and their community. Through the further development of this space, the Cape Verdean community will continue to be empowered and effect change.

Cape Verdean and other youth in the community have identified economic development and education as top priority areas of concern. Many youth do not feel good going into this summer knowing there is a lack of summer jobs. More are asking for an career oriented outlook to any jobs. Youth jobs should not be quick responses to today's need but a stepping stone for tomorrow's profession. They have to be linked with solid education and skills for career development that will help build a more secure future. Together we must join as a community that will support families and, in turn, youth. Support efforts by being a part of positive solutions. Join your local community-based efforts and don't give up on our young people.

John Barros is Executive Director of the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative and Denise Goncalves is Executive Director of the Cape Verdean Community Task Force.

Editor's Note: Rev. Rivers announced earlier this week, after the above commentary was submitted, that he planned to apologize for his remarks at a June 5th press conference, after this week's Reporter went to press.